This session discusses techniques for digital sculpting and fabrication that I have used in both my research and teaching. In contrast, to many forms of generating 3D objects, digital sculpting is a form of high-resolution modeling that is similar to working with digital clay in that it can be pushed, pulled, carved, and shaped intuitively. Additionally, using virtual reality touch controllers or pressure sensitive tablets allows a tactile approach in which the the user's hand intuitively shapes the forms. Virtual reality is an immersive digitally created experience that simulates visual, spatial, and aural cues through the use of a head mounted display and sensors that can track the movements of the head and hands. With current systems, users have agency to use their bodies to move around the virtual space, and choose to look in any direction. Using a range of approaches including Virtual Reality (or VR) sculpting, pressure sensitive graphics tablets, and grayscale image based modeling, I will demonstrate how I and my students use these tools for 3D printing, CNC routing, and digital mold-making. The resulting objects that I will present are created in XPS foam, resin, bronze, wood, and ceramics.
